UK Ends Fracking Ban, New Projects Slated To Move Ahead

Law360, New York (December 13, 2012, 2:36 PM EST) -- The U.K. on Thursday ended a 1 1/2-year ban on exploratory hydraulic fracturing for shale gas, saying it has adopted stricter safety policies and that the practice would supply energy and boost the economy.

Energy and Climate Change Secretary Edward Davey said the decision to lift the ban was made after the government studied the latest scientific research available and received advice from leading experts in the field. He said a new agency has been created specifically to oversee fracking.